What a Day in My Life as an ECU Student Really Looks Like

What does a typical day look like as an international student at ECU in Perth? It is a mix of study, work, independence, friendships and unexpected personal growth.

Dear readers, in this blog post, I want to share what it feels like to live your dreams. There are good days and bad days, and somewhere in between, you find yourself.

During my first three months, surprisingly, I did not feel homesick. Instead, I felt free-spirited, exploring different cities by myself. I never got bored staying at home and doing nothing most of the time, perhaps because I genuinely enjoyed my own company. In March 2025, I had the opportunity to visit Melbourne and stay there for a month and a week. I went to see my long-time university best friend, and I enjoyed spending time with her. She helped me understand Australian culture, which made it easier for me to adapt quickly. It was one of the best experiences I have had while living in Australia.

Coming back to Perth after a wonderful vacation, I started to feel the pressure of returning to university and work after several months of being unemployed. It had been over five years since I graduated, and now I was stepping back into student life again. My first year and first semester felt like a roller coaster ride. There were so many things to catch up on such us paperwork, class presentations, and the struggle of finding a decent job. Balancing uncomfortable jobs while compromising your studies can be difficult, but that is where endurance teaches you the most. My parents always remind me that this is part of stepping outside my comfort zone.

As time went by, I experienced my first three-month term break. We had the opportunity to work full-time, so I was eager to take on part-time and casual jobs to help earn money for tuition fees. During that time, I also made space to socialise. I attended sports and social events, joined outdoor activities, and spent a lot of time at the beach. Meeting new people became one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. It expanded my network and exposed me to different personal stories, experiences, and perspectives, which made me even more curious about people.

ECU has helped me discover who I want to be. It has helped me become a stronger and more independent woman. I have grown by conquering my fears and facing adulthood including managing my expenses, paying rent, and learning how to stand on my own. Sometimes living your dream does not look as glamorous as you imagined when you were younger. Sometimes it looks like struggle, sacrifice, and loneliness. But sometimes, those are exactly the things that shape you into who you are becoming.

Cherylle Mae Ungab

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Disclaimer: This content is for the sole purpose of teaching and learning at Edith Cowan Uiversity and has not been endorsed or otherwise approved by the organisation it promotes.